Introducing Honiara, the capital of Solomon Islands
For anyone coming to the Solomon Islands, a trip to the capital of Honiara is almost a requirement. This is the cultural hub of the whole islands and plays a major role in the development of the wider nation. Often your first port of call upon arrival, you will find this makes it perfect for you to take your time visiting the various parts of the archipelago.
Indeed, head back a decade and you would have found nothing more than a small port town. Massive urbanization of the city, though, has seen it become one of the busiest points in the region. At first, you might feel a little let down by the architecture and the layout of the city, with little ‘tourist traps’ to capture you. That, though, will soon disperse – take a look into the deeper heart of Honiara, and it grows on you very quickly.
Part of what makes a trip to the capital of the Solomon Islands so fun is that you just get to enjoy its total freedom. Head to most capital cities, and the desire to be economically viable ensures the heart and soul of capital often goes missing. However, take a trip through the bustling old-school marketplace, or take refuge in the many Melanesian museums, and you will get to enjoy a capital city with its heart well and truly still intact.
What should I do in Honiara?
Part of what makes a trip here so fun and so satisfying, though, is the immense nature of the things to see and do from here. For example, you could easily take part in the numerous range of outdoor activities waiting for you in places like Guadalcanal.
We recommend that you take the time to check out the beautiful Botanical Gardens and also take a trip to the National Parliament. One offers you a sense of natural beauty and immense beauty, the other shows you the massive change which has taken place in this nation.
In terms of things to do and see, you should also check out their fine culinary ranges. From outstanding Indian cuisine at the Taj Mahal to a trip to the Hukubai restaurant for some Japanese foods, you’ll find all manner of awesome cuisine to try out. for something a touch more local, check out The Ofis or Mambo Juice.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, a trip to the White River Village is a must-have. This awesome little Gilbertese settlement sits just outside of the capital, and it’s famous for its amazing betel nuts. Take a trip down here, and you will soon appreciate just how well-respected and appreciated the betel nut is!
Overall, though, a trip to the capital of Honiara is something you absolutely must take part in. Few capital cities can feel like such a fine example of their nation’s culture and overall style. Here, you should immediately feel at home – and, crucially, feel welcome in the Solomon Islands.